Quick Answer:
Labradoodle puppies cost $1,500-$3,000+ from reputable breeders. Mini Labradoodles cost more ($2,000-$3,500) than Standards due to higher demand. Australian Labradoodles range from $2,500-$5,000+. Expect to spend $2,000-$4,000 annually on food, grooming, and vet care - with grooming being one of the biggest ongoing expenses ($800-$1,500/year).
Labradoodle Puppy Prices (2026)
Labradoodle prices vary significantly based on size, generation, color, and breeder reputation:
| Type | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Labradoodle (F1) | $1,500-$2,500 | First generation, most affordable |
| Medium Labradoodle | $2,000-$3,000 | Popular family size |
| Mini Labradoodle | $2,000-$3,500 | Highest demand, apartment-friendly |
| Multi-gen (F1B, F2, etc.) | $2,000-$3,500 | More predictable coats |
| Australian Labradoodle | $2,500-$5,000+ | Multi-generation, most consistent |
| Rescue/Adoption | $200-$500 | Adoption fee only |
Factors Affecting Labradoodle Price
1. Size
Mini and Medium Labradoodles cost more than Standards because:
- Higher demand (better for apartments and smaller homes)
- More difficult to breed (often requires artificial insemination)
- Smaller litter sizes
2. Generation
- F1 (Labrador x Poodle): Most affordable, least predictable coat
- F1B (F1 x Poodle): Curlier coats, often less shedding
- F2 and beyond: More consistent traits
- Australian Labradoodle: Multi-generation breeding, most predictable
3. Color and Markings
Rare colors and patterns command higher prices:
- Standard colors (cream, apricot, black): Base price
- Chocolate, red: +$200-$500
- Parti (two colors), phantom: +$500-$1,000
- Rare colors (blue, silver): +$500-$1,500
4. Breeder Reputation
Established breeders with proven health testing, excellent reviews, and waiting lists charge premium prices. This investment typically results in healthier puppies with better temperaments.
5. Geographic Location
Prices vary by region. Urban areas and coastal regions (California, New York, Florida) typically have higher prices than rural Midwest areas. However, shipping a puppy adds $300-$500.
Breeder vs. Rescue: Cost Comparison
| Factor | Breeder | Rescue |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $1,500-$5,000 | $200-$500 |
| Age | 8-12 weeks (puppy) | Usually adult (1-8 years) |
| Health History | Parent testing included | Often unknown |
| Temperament | Can meet parents | Known personality (adult) |
| Training | Starting fresh | May be trained already |
| Availability | 6-12 month wait common | Varies, Labradoodles are rare in rescues |
Finding rescue Labradoodles: Check Doodle-specific rescues like Doodle Rescue Collective, IDOG Rescue, and Poodle rescue groups. Purebred Labradoodles are uncommon in general shelters but do appear. Expect to wait and be flexible on size/color.
Labradoodles share similar fluffy coats with Goldendoodles - both require significant grooming investment
Ongoing Ownership Costs
The purchase price is just the beginning. Here's what to budget annually:
| Expense | Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grooming | $800-$1,500 | Major ongoing expense! |
| Food (quality kibble) | $600-$1,200 | Varies by size |
| Veterinary care | $300-$600 | Routine exams, vaccines |
| Pet insurance | $400-$800 | Recommended for doodles |
| Treats and supplies | $200-$400 | Toys, brushes, beds |
| Total Annual Cost | $2,300-$4,500 | Routine expenses only |
Grooming Costs: The Expense Many Underestimate
Grooming is often the biggest surprise expense for new Labradoodle owners. Their curly, non-shedding coats require professional attention every 6-8 weeks - this is not optional.
| Size | Per Session | Annual (6-8 visits) |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Labradoodle | $80-$120 | $640-$960 |
| Medium Labradoodle | $100-$140 | $800-$1,120 |
| Standard Labradoodle | $120-$150 | $960-$1,200 |
What Happens If You Skip Grooming?
Labradoodle coats mat quickly without regular brushing and professional grooming. Severe matting causes skin irritation, pain, and infection. Removing mats costs an additional $30-$75, or may require a complete shave-down. The coat always needs maintenance - there's no way around this expense.
For detailed grooming information, see our doodle grooming guide.
Find a Doodle-Experienced Groomer
Labradoodles need groomers who understand doodle coats. Search our directory for professionals near you.
Find Groomers Near MeWhat Reputable Breeders Include
When paying $1,500-$3,000+ for a Labradoodle puppy, you should receive:
- Health testing documentation: OFA or PennHIP hip evaluations, eye exams (CERF), cardiac clearances, and genetic testing (EIC, PRA, vWD) for both parents
- First vaccinations: DHPP series started, often first two rounds
- Deworming: Multiple rounds completed
- Microchip: Already implanted and registered
- Health guarantee: 1-2 year guarantee against genetic conditions
- Veterinary exam: Clean bill of health from a licensed vet
- Early socialization: Exposure to household sounds, handling, and often basic training
- Puppy starter kit: Food, toys, blanket with littermate scent
- Ongoing support: Breeder available for questions throughout the dog's life
Red Flags: When the Price Is Too Good
If a Labradoodle is priced significantly below market rate, be cautious. Warning signs include:
- Price under $1,000: Likely a puppy mill, backyard breeder, or scam
- No health testing: Reputable breeders always test parents
- No facility visits: Won't let you see where puppies are raised
- Multiple litters always available: Sign of a puppy mill
- No questions asked: Good breeders screen buyers
- Pressure to buy quickly: "Won't last" or "deposit required immediately"
- Payment only via wire transfer or gift cards: Common in scams
- Can't provide references: No reviews or previous buyers to contact
The True Cost of a "Cheap" Labradoodle
Puppies from irresponsible breeders often have genetic health problems that cost thousands in vet bills. Hip dysplasia surgery alone costs $3,000-$7,000 per hip. The initial savings are quickly erased by medical expenses, behavioral issues, and heartbreak.
Lifetime Cost of Owning a Labradoodle
Over a Labradoodle's 12-15 year lifespan, here's what to expect:
| Expense Category | Lifetime Cost |
|---|---|
| Puppy purchase | $1,500-$5,000 |
| First year setup (supplies, training, spay/neuter) | $2,000-$4,000 |
| Annual costs x 12-15 years | $27,000-$60,000 |
| Emergency vet fund | $2,000-$10,000 |
| Total Lifetime Cost | $32,500-$79,000 |
While these numbers may seem high, they're realistic for responsible doodle ownership. The significant grooming costs and potential health issues make budgeting essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Labradoodle cost?▼
Labradoodle puppies cost $1,500-$3,000+ from reputable breeders. Mini Labradoodles cost $2,000-$3,500 due to higher demand. Australian Labradoodles (multi-generation) cost $2,500-$5,000+. Rescue Labradoodles cost $200-$500 in adoption fees.
Why are Labradoodles so expensive?▼
Labradoodles are expensive because reputable breeders invest in health testing ($1,000+ per parent), quality breeding stock, proper veterinary care, early socialization, and sometimes artificial insemination. Smaller sizes cost more due to breeding challenges and high demand.
How much does it cost to own a Labradoodle per year?▼
Annual Labradoodle ownership costs $2,000-$4,000 including: grooming ($800-$1,500), food ($600-$1,200), veterinary care ($300-$600), pet insurance ($400-$800), and supplies. Grooming is one of the biggest ongoing expenses for this breed.
Are Mini Labradoodles more expensive than Standard?▼
Yes, Mini Labradoodles typically cost $500-$1,000 more than Standards. Mini and Medium sizes are in higher demand (better for apartments/smaller homes), and breeding smaller dogs involves more challenges and often requires artificial insemination.
What should be included when buying a Labradoodle puppy?▼
Reputable breeders include: health testing results for both parents (hips, eyes, heart), first vaccinations and deworming, microchip, health guarantee (1-2 years), veterinary exam, early socialization, puppy starter kit, and ongoing breeder support.
How much does Labradoodle grooming cost?▼
Professional Labradoodle grooming costs $80-$150 per session every 6-8 weeks, totaling $800-$1,500 annually. This is one of the highest ongoing costs. Skipping grooming leads to painful matting that costs more to address. Many owners underestimate this expense.
The Bottom Line
Expect to pay $1,500-$3,000+ for a Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder, plus $2,000-$4,000 annually in ongoing costs. Grooming is a significant expense that cannot be skipped. While the initial investment is substantial, health-tested puppies from responsible breeders typically have fewer long-term health problems.
Before bringing home a Labradoodle, ensure you're prepared for the financial commitment. Budget for professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, quality food, and pet insurance. If the costs seem prohibitive, consider adopting an adult Labradoodle from a rescue - they need homes too, and you'll save on the initial purchase price while still getting a wonderful companion.
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